Fraunhofer IKTS, a specialist in ceramic technology, has been active in the SOEC field for over 25 years and possesses comprehensive expertise across the entire value chain - from materials to systems, including economic feasibility studies. To accelerate further industrial application, collaboration is essential. This is why our strategic R&D partnership with Fraunhofer IKTS aims to advance SOEC technology for large-scale application.
The production of green hydrogen using SOEC technology is currently confined to a laboratory and other small scale settings, indicating that we are in the early stages of developing high-temperature electrolysis for industrial-scale application. Consequently, a pilot manufacturing plant planned by Fraunhofer IKTS and operated by thyssenkrupp nucera HTE will commence operations in the first quarter of 2025, producing high-temperature electrolysis stacks with SOE cells — the core components of SOEC stacks - in limited quantities initially. The strategic partnership also encompasses a license for thyssenkrupp nucera to produce and utilize CFY stacks based on Fraunhofer IKTS’s SOEC technology. At the pilot manufacturing plant, we are thus combining our strengths to drive forward the industrialization of SOEC technology.
A further test facility will focus on validating the technology’s efficiency in converting electricity to hydrogen in the produced stacks with the use of waste heat. By conducting practical tests and economic feasibility studies, we aim to fine-tune SOEC technology for large-scale applications, ensuring it meets the high operational standards required for industrial environments. This joint effort allows us to develop solutions that seamlessly integrate into existing industrial processes. Should the initial work on industrial applications prove successful and funding be secured, we will proceed with investing in the development of large-scale production infrastructure. SOEC will be an excellent addition to our technology portfolio, providing our customers with significant benefits.
